What to do in Taupō

Activities, attractions and tours

A bridge over a fast-flowing river surrounded by lush greenery.
A blue raft with passengers on a river.
A misty landscape with a mountain in the background and a path leading through a forest.
A building with a sign reading "Hukafalls Jet - The Most Thrilling by Nature".
A forested area with a dirt path and a wooden fence.

Things to do

Hukafalls Jet Boat Ride in Taupo

Hukafalls Jet Boat Ride in Taupo

Rp1.858.377
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Hukafalls Jet Boat Ride in Taupo
Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise aboard Ernest Kemp

Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise aboard Ernest Kemp

Rp506.121
per adult
98% of travellers recommend
Lake Taupō Māori Rock Carvings Scenic Cruise aboard Ernest Kemp
Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour

Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour

Rp1.467.752
per adult
Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings Kayaking Tour
Picture 1 for Activity Taupō: Lake Taupo Maori Rock Carving 2.5-Hour Sailing Cruise

Taupō: Sail Barbary Eco Sailing to the Maori Rock Carvings

Rp597.223
per adult
Taupō: Sail Barbary Eco Sailing to the Maori Rock Carvings
Lake Taupo: 1.5-Hour Māori Rock Carvings Cruise

Lake Taupo: 1.5-Hour Māori Rock Carvings Cruise

Rp657.958
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Lake Taupo: 1.5-Hour Māori Rock Carvings Cruise
Lake Taupo: Luxury Sailing Catamaran to Māori Rock Carvings

Lake Taupo: Luxury Sailing Catamaran to Māori Rock Carvings

Rp698.448
per adult
96% of travellers recommend
Lake Taupo: Luxury Sailing Catamaran to Māori Rock Carvings
Lake Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings 10.30 AM 1.5-Hour Cruise

Lake Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings 10.30 AM 1.5-Hour Cruise

Rp657.958
per adult
100% of travellers recommend
Lake Taupo: Maori Rock Carvings 10.30 AM 1.5-Hour Cruise
See all activities in Taupō
  • find price illustration

    Explore activities

    Explore thousands of experiences from activities and attractions to day tours and transfer.
  • calendar shield illustration

    Book with ease

    Skip the line- book tickets online in minutes to top attractions with free cancellation on many activities.
  • trophy illustration

    Treat yourself

    Members save % or more when you book activities.

What to do in Taupō

Stay near popular Taupō attractions

A geothermal area with colorful hot springs surrounded by forest and mountains.

Taupō Hot Springs

9.0/10 (643 reviews)
Immerse yourself in four geothermal pools with temperatures ranging from 21°C to 42°C at Taupō Thermal Springs. The adults-only environment ensures a tranquil experience perfect for post-adventure relaxation.
See properties

Where to stay in Taupō

Find the best Taupō areas for the activities you enjoy most.
A mountainous landscape with a lake and a distant view of islands.

Taupō Central

If you're spending some time in Taupō Central, Taupō Marina and Boat Ramp and Lake Taupō are top sights worth seeing.

A calm lake with boats, a wooden dock, and a forested hillside.

Acacia Bay

Lake views and restaurants are notable features of Acacia Bay. You might consider stopping by Lake Taupō while you're exploring the neighbourhood.

A person riding a horse along a shoreline with calm water and distant mountains.

Richmond Heights

While Richmond Heights may not have many sights to explore, venturing just a little farther will lead you to top things to see and do like Taupō Hot Springs and Maori Carvings.

A clear blue sea with distant mountains and lush greenery in the foreground.
Photo by Aaron Andersen
Open Photo by Aaron Andersen

Hilltop

While visiting Hilltop, you might make a stop by sights like Taupō Hot Springs and Lake Taupō.

Wharewaka

While visiting Wharewaka, you might make a stop by sights like Lake Taupō and The Landing Lake Taupō.

Day trip destinations from Taupō

A wooden fence, a person, and a misty landscape.

Wairakei

Frequently asked questions

Is Taupō worth visiting?
Taupō has a unique blend of culture, local charm and attractions. Whether you're into history, outdoor activities or traditional cuisine, there are many things here to enjoy.
How do I spend a day in Taupō?
Kick-start your day with a visit to Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa and Spa Thermal Park. Then, explore other areas of Taupō for local dining and some souvenir shopping.
What is the top tourist attraction in Taupō?
You can't leave without checking out Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa, rated the top tourist attraction in Taupō.
Is three days enough to stay in Taupō?
Three days in Taupō is plenty of time to visit the city's major attractions. Many travellers stay for two days on average. Wairakei Terraces & Thermal Health Spa, Spa Thermal Park and The Landing Lake Taupō are top-rated sights. Like to discover more? Hang around a little longer to check off nearby hotspots such as Turangi.
Is Taupō a walkable city?
Some leading attractions in Taupō, like Spa Thermal Park and Maori Carvings, are within walking distance. You can also explore several of the city's popular neighbourhoods on foot. Just 3 kilometers from central Taupō is Waipahihi and Two Mile Bay is 3 kilometers away.
What are some activities to do in Taupō with kids?
Whether you're holidaying with young explorers or adventure-seeking teens, an itinerary filled with fun activities makes a big difference. Browse our recommendations for what to do in Taupō with kids.

What to do in Taupō for adults?
From delicious food and cultural highlights to thrilling adventures and unique experiences, there are many great things to do in Taupō for adults.
Are there free things to do in Taupō?
One of the easiest ways to find free things to do in Taupō is to chat to a local tour guide. You'll get insider views on hip neighbourhoods, parks and other major attractions you can enjoy without taking your wallet out. Spa Thermal Park is one sight that doesn't have an admission fee.